PHOENIX, Dec. 30, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The local, independent insurer Blue Cross® Blue Shield® of Arizona (BCBSAZ) announced that Carondelet Health Network and Abrazo Community Health Network will remain part of the BCBSAZ network in 2016. The negotiations came to a close when Tenet Healthcare, the controlling entity for the two hospital systems, accepted a four-year deal. This agreement is in effect for all BCBSAZ lines of business -- individual, group, FEP and Medicare Advantage.

"This was an unusual situation in that it took much longer than anyone expected to reach an agreement. We are pleased it keeps reimbursement increases to market norm without jeopardizing the long-term affordability for our members," said Jeff Stelnik, senior vice president. "In the end, members can have peace of mind knowing they will continue to have the same in-network options to select from at a fair price."

Affordable healthcare will remain a top priority for BCBSAZ. "Quality local care is essential for a healthy community. We are pleased to have both Abrazo and Carondelet as network choices in Maricopa and Southern Arizona for our members," added Stelnik.

To learn more about what BCBSAZ is doing to help control costs, visit inyourcornerAZ.org.

About Blue Cross Blue Shield of ArizonaBlue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (BCBSAZ), an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, is a nonprofit company founded in 1939. BCBSAZ provides health insurance products, services or networks to 1.4 million individuals. With offices in Phoenix, Flagstaff, Tucson and the East Valley, the company employs more than 1,400 Arizonans. Follow BCBSAZ at www.facebook.com/bcbsaz or on Twitter at @bcbsaz.